Are you tired of bland, uninspiring vegetable dishes that leave you craving something more? Get ready to transform your dinner table with this mouthwatering Cheesy Loaded Cauliflower Casserole that's about to become your new obsession! Imagine creamy, perfectly seasoned cauliflower smothered in a decadent blend of melted cheeses, creating a dish so irresistible that even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds. This isn't just a side dish – it's a culinary experience that proves healthy eating can be absolutely delicious!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Wash the cauliflower head thoroughly and chop into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size for even cooking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the cauliflower florets. Blanch for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still firm, then drain and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Gently fold the blanched cauliflower florets into the cheese mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Transfer the cauliflower and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top for extra crustiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the casserole to set.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving hot as a delicious side dish or light main course.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Cauliflower: Select a firm, white cauliflower with tight, compact florets for the best texture and flavor.
- Don't Overcook: When blanching, aim for slightly tender but still firm cauliflower. Overcooking will result in a mushy casserole.
- Pat Dry Thoroughly: After blanching, make sure to drain and pat the cauliflower completely dry to prevent excess moisture in your casserole.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your cheeses and cream come to room temperature for smoother mixing and more even melting.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations like adding some sharp cheddar or a sprinkle of parmesan for extra flavor.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this casserole in advance and refrigerate before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Crispy Top Secret: For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
